Common Sense Media Review
By Amanda Nojadera
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Heartfelt time-travel tale of family, identity, immigration.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
What's the Story?
Priscilla, a first-generation Korean American and former high school cheerleader, expects her daughter, Sam, to pursue the All-American dream. But Sam isn't interested in the clichéd high school experience; she's a modern Gen Z teen. After a huge argument, Sam is transported back to the '90s alongside a 17-year-old Priscilla. In this THROWBACK era, Sam must deal with outdated technology, old-fashioned attitudes, and her growing attraction to a sweet football player named Jamie. Sam only has limited time to mend her relationship with Priscilla. Can she fix the past, or will she be stuck in the '90s forever?
Is It Any Good?
Maurene Goo's heartfelt time-travel tale brilliantly explores family, identity, and the immigrant experience making it a must-read for teens. There are plenty of LOL-worthy moments as Sam tries to navigate the '90s. However, the most poignant moments occur when Sam realizes how casual racism, cultural differences, and the pressure to meet Halmoni's expectations have shaped Priscilla into who she is today. As Sam's Throwback trip helps her find a way for her family to move forward, readers will see the importance of communication, compassion, empathy, and gratitude.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the generational conflict in Throwback. Do your grandparents or parents have values or traditions you think are old-fashioned and have no place in today's world?
Talk about the various kinds of diversity in the novel. Why are diverse representations important in children's and young adult literature?
Mother-daughter relationships can be fraught with tension and strong bonds. Do any of the conflicts in the book sound familiar to you?
How do the characters demonstrate empathy, communication, compassion, and gratitude? Why are these important character strengths?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Contemporary Fiction
- Topics : Friendship , School ( High School )
- Character Strengths : Communication , Empathy , Gratitude
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Zando Young Readers
- Publication date : April 11, 2023
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 14 - 17
- Number of pages : 368
- Available on : Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Award : Common Sense Selection
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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